Gas Exchange

• Gas exchange is the process by which oxygen and carbon dioxide are moved between the body and the environment
• Explanation

  In the lungs, oxygen moves from the alveoli into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide moves from the bloodstream into the alveoli. This process occurs in the millions of alveoli and the capillaries that surround them
• How it happens

  The three main processes involved in gas exchange are ventilation, diffusion, and perfusion: 

  • Ventilation: Air moves in and out of the lungs. 
  • Diffusion: Gases move spontaneously between the alveoli and capillaries without any energy input from the body. 
  • Perfusion: The cardiovascular system pumps blood throughout the lungs.
• • Importance: Gas exchange allows oxygen to enter cells for respiration and removes carbon dioxide, a waste product of respiration.